A volunteer committee of students, faculty, and staff will review all proposals and establish a ballot of three potential gifts. In October, seniors of the Class of 2014 will be asked to vote for their choice.

The class gift is an opportunity for students to leave a legacy at Penn State for future generations. The tradition began when the graduates of 1861, at their reunion in 1890, gave the University a portrait of its first president, Evan Pugh, which still hangs in the lobby of Old Main.

"The class gifts safeguard the history of the University and embody the students that the gifts represent," said senior Katia Esarey, class gift committee chair. "The program also supports graduating seniors in taking their first philanthropic steps -- encouraging us to always give back to our Dear Old State -- while also supporting future students."

Class gifts can add something new to campus or can help to improve existing gifts or endow them with a permanent source of support. In the past, class gifts have often created, restored or improved physical displays on campus, such as the Penn State Veterans Plaza, the Old Main Bell and the Nittany Lion Shrine. In addition, previous classes have chosen to create or add to such gifts as undergraduate scholarships and library book funds.

"It is such an honor to lead this amazing and important tradition at our alma mater," said Esarey, "and I am excited to see how our class will choose to express itself for future Penn Staters."

Questions about gift proposals can be directed to Geoff Hallett, senior class gift adviser, at 814-865-0198 or gdh15@psu.edu.